Vol. 435 No. 1
149 Mr. J. Bruton asked the Minister for Tourism and Trade if his attention has been drawn to the fact that a proposal for an anti-dumping duty on Chinese magnesite is presently before the Council of Ministers; and his position regarding this matter in view of the fact that some Irish manufacturers could be severely effected by the importation of this product.
I am fully aware of the proposal for an anti-dumping duty on imports of Chinese deadburned magnesite into the European Community.
The proposal has implications for Irish manufacturers — both those who produce synthetic deadburned magnesite and those who use the Chinese product in their manufacturing process. There are accordingly divergent views as to the likely effect of the proposed anti-dumping duty.
Having consulted with the Minister for Enterprise and Employment and taking into account all aspects of the case it has not been possible for Ireland to support the Commission's present proposal. I have indicated that I am prepared to support any alternative arrangement which would better safeguard the interests of companies in this area, both those producing deadburned magnesite and those using the imported product in their processing.
The IDA and ABT have been asked to keep in contact with the relevant companies with a view to providing assistance in the present situation.
